The daunting journey: Why Indian students commit suicide and who should blame—Education System or Parental/Societal Pressure?

Introduction

India, a country renowned for its academic rigors, sees 10 out of the world's 7 toughest entrance exams. With selection rates as low as 0.5%, the academic pressure is immense. This intense competition often results in heart-wrenching consequences, with many students losing their lives to mental burdens. A paramount question arises: should we blame the education system or the societal pressures?

The Reality of Student Pressure

Indian students can be broadly categorized into three groups:

tRich Students: Those from affluent backgrounds who seldom sweat over studies, thus, they are least likely to commit suicide due to academic stress. tPoor Students: Many of these students exhibit immense resilience due to the challenging circumstances they face, thus, suicide is less common among them. tMiddle-Class Students: This segment houses the majority and is often the most vulnerable. High parental expectations paired with the fear of failure contribute significantly to rising suicide rates among them.

One individual, who was compelled to study but always remained emotionally detached, highlights the issue. His memorization of the quote, "Don’t bother about society, everything is temporary—whether success or failure; also your body," underscores the transient nature of these challenges.

The Broken Education System

The current education system in India is often criticized for its failure to cater to all students' mental and cognitive abilities. For instance, students with exceptional absorption but struggle in writing may end up scoring poorly, which can be personally devastating. Additionally, students forced to study subjects they have no interest in often underperform, despite having a tutor of top quality.

Welcome to the paradox of success: those who merely memorize information are rewarded, while those who truly understand but cannot express themselves effectively are penalized. Some students exert unimaginable effort to grasp complex subjects but still find themselves in predicaments. They face harsh criticism and labels, making them feel as if they lack mental acumen. Extreme disappointments can lead to severe depression, ultimately pushing them towards suicide.

Rethinking Education for Sustained Well-being

It is time to rethink and reform the Indian education system to instill mental resilience and stress management. From a young age, curriculum designs should offer diverse subject options, ensuring students have a choice that resonates with their inclinations. This promotes a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

The examination system must also be adjusted to accommodate varying learning styles. Quizzes, regular assessments, and mentorship programs can help reduce the colossal pressure of large-scale examinations. Self-esteem and confidence should be prioritized, acknowledging every student's unique contribution.

In conclusion, the well-being of Indian students cannot be overlooked. Addressing the root causes of academic pressure and societal expectations is crucial. We must strive for a more holistic education system that nurtures the mental health and academic growth of our future leaders.